A Few Facts * 

• About Carpets 



1884 




[ESSRS. PRAY & CO. suggest to their 
customers, that, in order to insure 
prompt and careful attention, 

All correspondence should be ad- 
dressed to the firm. 

Prompt notice should be given when 
work is not satisfactory. 

The firm desire to know of any 
matter causing serious annoyance. 

Any misunderstanding as to goods 
should be reported immediately, that 
all such matters may be adjusted 
promptly. 



COPY OF THIS BOOK will be sent 
^1 to any address upon application. 

JOHN H. PRAY, SONS, & CO., 

558 and 560 Washington Street, 

Boston, Mass. 




ARPET 




OTES 



/ £>~l 



INDEX. 






Car 



Antique Carpets 

Turkey Carpets 

Indian Carpets . 

Persian Carpets. 

Saxony Carpets . 

Antique Rugs. . 

Daghestan Rugs 

American Smyrna 
pets and Rugs . 

Surrounds, or Fillings 

Whole and Breadth Ax 
minsters . . 

Wiltons . . . 

Brussels . . . 

Tapestries . . 

English Woodstock 
pets 

Ingrains .... 

Sample Patterns 

Straw Mattings. 

Oil-cloths . . . 

Linoleums . . . 



Car 



io 
ii 

12 

12 
13 

M 

14 
'15 
17 
18 

'9 
19 



PAGE 

Lignums 20 

Paper . . 20 

Lining 20 

Covering for Stair-car- 
pets 21 

Stair-rods 21 

Widths of Carpets . . 22 

Moths 23 

Sweeping Carpets ... 24 
Naphtha Cleansing . . 25 
Beating Carpets ... 25 
Washing Carpets ... 26 
Cleansing on Floor . . 26 
Varnishing Oil-cloths . 27 
Cleansing Oil-cloths . 27 
Storage of Carpets . . 27 
Making and Laying Car- 
pets 28 

Hints about Measuring 

(with Wood-cut) . 29 
Hints upon Laying Car- 
pets 31 



6fl 10 - V 11 



INTRODUCTORY. 



The following facts have been gathered by Messrs. 
John H. Pray, Sons, & Co., after an experience of several 
years, and are confirmed largely by that of their many 
customers. In giving them, they are to serve the purpose 
of conveying information, such as will enable many others 
to determine for themselves the comparative value of 
different makes and kinds of carpets. 

Should they enable any one to make his selection with 
more ease, rapidity, and satisfaction to himself, much will 
have been accomplished. 

Yet what is here written should in no way be regarded 
as a complete description, but rather a mention of the 
more important features of those carpets considered the 
most prominent. 

Should some matters referred to seem to be outside the 
scope of this article, it can be said that no reference is 



4 A FEW FACTS ABOUT CARPETS. 

made to any matter which is not in some way directly 
affected by, or affecting directly, the carpet. 

Allusion to "some of the subjects (such as moths and 
their habits) is made because of the inquiry about such 
matters. 

The advantages in purchasing of a firm like Messrs. 
Pray & Co., having a large wholesale and retail business, 
are many. There is a strong tendency to charge less 
than an exclusively retail establishment. Their stock is 
always much larger in every department, and their facili- 
ties for prompt delivery are far better. 

It is suggested, that, in furnishing, the first real selec- 
tion, after deciding upon a general coloring, should be 
the carpet. 

It is regarded, by those most competent to judge, as 
the foundation of the whole. It is far easier to match 
or harmonize the paper and paint to the carpet, than 
to attempt to do the opposite. 



A FEW FACTS ABOUT CARPETS. 



Antique Carpets. — Ranking first, as they do, for 
durability, beauty, dissimilarity of design, and mellowness 
of coloring, they naturally command first place for fine 
furnishing, where a rug or carpet centre, with a surround 
of wood or carpet, is desired. 

They are adapted more particularly for the reception- 
rooms and large entrance-halls. 

The material for surrounds, or outside filling, is referred 
to later on. 

Prices on these goods vary much, their condition and 
the style of the carpet determining the price; but the 
latter is also governed largely by the establishment where 
purchased. 



Turkey Carpets. — Of goods woven whole, these 
commend themselves to the especial attention of the pur- 
chaser, for solid reasons. They have not deteriorated of 
late years, but still retain their former reputation for qual- 
ity, immense durability, and beauty. We have known 
these goods to go through fire and water, and, by proper 
cleansing, to regain their lustre, and wear many years after. 



6 A FEW FACTS ABOUT CARPETS. 

Being made mostly in greens and reds, they retain their 
color far better than some others. 

For these and other reasons, Messrs. Pray & Co. have 
considered it advisable to import this year a larger line 
than ever, which they are offering at prices somewhat less 
than heretofore. They are especially desirable for library 
and dining-room. 

Indian Carpets. — Although these often take prece- 
dence, in matter of style and aesthetic coloring, of the 
Turkey carpets, the wearing qualities of some grades are 
gradually compelling the purchaser to be more cautious 
in his selection. Messrs. Pray & Co. carry a fine as- 
sortment of these goods, to which they invite attention. 
For fine effects in the reception-rooms, they have few 
superiors. 

Persian Carpets. — These goods vary in quality 
and in style full as much as any make of Eastern 
carpets. They can be found in the finest woven, the 
most delicately designed patterns, and in great variety 
of color. The purchaser who is enabled to procure 



A FEW FACTS ABOUT CARPETS. 7 

the better quality of these goods will never regret his 
purchase. 

Saxony Carpets. — These are a German production, 
of which Messrs. Pray & Co. can speak in high terms, 
after an experience of some twenty years in their im- 
portation and sale. They closely resemble the Turkey 
carpets, and are closer in their weave ; while their whole 
appearance is a strong assurance of their fine wearing 
qualities. Messrs. Pray & Co. have been quite successful 
in their importation of special orders in solid centres, 
and their book of designs will enable any one to choose 
that which is best adapted to the coloring and furnishing 
of his room. They have exclusive control of these 
goods for the Eastern States. 

Antique Rugs. — Much that can be said of the 
carpets will apply as well to the rugs. It is seldom 
that there are two alike in pattern ; the sheen upon them 
is often exquisite ; they are made in a great variety of 
shapes ; and the customer has the opportunity to select 



8 A FEW FACTS ABOUT CARPETS. 



from a very large stock. The claim that Messrs. Pray & 
Co. make, that their prices on these goods are more rea- 
sonable than at any other establishment, will be proved 
by an examination of their stock. There are decided 
advantages in purchasing any kind of Oriental goods 
from this firm, as their stock is a culled selection by one 
of the partners. Far less trouble is needed in select, 
ing, even, than in London, where no doubt the stock is 
larger, but containing much of what would be considered 
undesirable. 

Daghestan Rugs. — These are hand-woven, exactly 
as the antique. Although lacking the softness of color of 
the antique rugs, which is produced by age, they have the 
advantage of a more even surface, and are wholly without 
blemish. Their stock of these is larger than at any other 
establishment in Boston, and their prices lower. 

For some reasons already expressed, and others equally 
strong, it is hardly practicable to quote prices of Eastern 
carpets ; but Messrs. Pray & Co. invite intending pur- 
chasers to send (or request to be taken) an outline-plan 



A FEW FACTS ABOUT CARPETS. 



of the space for which the carpet is required. Should 
there be nothing in their stock suitable in size and color, 
they have at their office a memorandum of sizes and 
colorings which can be obtained abroad by their agents. 

Messrs. Pray & Co. also desire to state, that a whole 
carpet a few inches too long, or wider than it should be, 
can be reduced in size at small expense, and without in 
the least injuring the fabric. Besides, by their method, 
the carpet can be placed back into its original shape at 
any time. 

But while the able report on the East-Indian Exhibi- 
tion in Paris states the slow deterioration of Eastern 
carpets, in texture, design, and other characteristics for 
which they have been formerly noted, more modern 
inventions in carpets, both English and American, show 
wonderful progress in all particulars, no doubt influenced 
for the better in many ways by the study of the older 
types. This is apparent, also, in the borders of carpets, 
as now woven, being much wider than formerly, drawn to 
more appropriate width, rendering it one of the most 
beautiful features of the modern style. 



10 A FEW FACTS ABOUT CARPETS. 



Following these higher grades of whole carpets and 
rugs, there is an almost endless variety. Among the more 
prominent are the 

American Smyrna Carpets and Rugs, which 
are constantly in stock, as per sizes below, and which are 
capable of being made in any special size required. 
These goods are double-faced, identically the same on 
both sides, and, in the better make, wear splendidly. 

Mistakes are often made by the customer in comparing 
prices on these goods ; as their sale, being so tremendous, 
has caused several grades to be manufactured, which, of 
necessity, come in competition with each other. Quality 
as well as price should be considered. 

LARGE SIZES. SMALLER SIZES. 

4 ft. x 7 ft. 3 ft. X 6 ft. 

6 " X 9 " *\ " X 5 " 

7 " X ii " 26 in. X 52 in. 
9 " X 12 " 20 " X 48 "■ 

18 " x 36 " 



A FEW FACTS ABOUT CARPETS. II 



Surrounds. — Outside of the parquetry, which is made 
in an almost endless variety of woods and designs, but 
where any but the best is apt to cause much future trouble, 
and where the expense of this deters many from con- 
sidering it, Messrs. Pray & Co.'s establishment furnishes 
various substitutes. After considering the plain Axmin- 
ster, Wilton, and Velvet, as the more expensive, the space 
between the whole carpet or rug and the wall can be 
most appropriately filled with either a fine English felt- 
ing, which is made in a variety of colors (tan, olive- 
green, maroon, peacock, and others), or with a plain 
color of best ingrain, English Kalmuc, or even a figured 
Kensington. 

Where one desires more of a wood or stone effect, the 
tile Linoleums answer the purpose admirably, and are 
very reasonable in price. 

Surrounds for billiard-tables are made from a great 
variety of articles ; but for beauty, finish, and wear, the 
stair-carpet, either in Wilton, Velvet, or Brussels, has 
proved well adapted to the purpose. If a surface which 
can be washed is desired, Linoleum is an excellent 
article. A still finer furnishing for the billiard-room is to 



12 A FEW FACTS' ABOUT CARPETS. 



cover the entire space with a plain Lignum, and spread 
rugs where desired. 

Whole Axminster. — The English goods, in which 
make those woven whole are mostly ordered, are made 
in a number of qualities ; and the prices vary per square 
yard accordingly. Samples of quality and designs for 
special orders can be seen at Messrs. Pray & Co.'s estab- 
lishment. As in Berlin or Saxony carpets, any shaped 
room can be fitted. Their facilities for procuring the 
finest things were never better than now, and their prices 
compare favorably with those of other dealers. The same 
designs and many others can be had in breadth goods, at 
a much less price. 

Wiltons. — This make of goods is steadily growing 
in favor, as the public realize the beautiful effects to be 
found, and their great durability. As the foreign makes 
are woven upon originally patented American machinery, 
it follows that the domestic goods of the better makes, at 
the low prices now prevailing, are a good purchase. The 
exception in favor of the English goods has to do more 



A FEW FACTS ABOUT CARPETS. 1 3 



with the design and coloring, as it is a question whether 
their wear is any better for the same quality. Messrs. 
Pray & Co.'s stock of these goods is very choice, both in 
English and American. In the latter, the Lowell and 
Bigelow makes excel in all particulars. 

Brussels Carpets. — It is hardly necessary to more 
than mention an article now so prominently before the 
public ; one in whose manufacture thousands of looms 
are engaged, and the sale of which is so enormous ; 
an article as staple as silk in dry-goods, yet, like the 
latter, made in various qualities. 

The perfection of design and coloring would seem to 
have reached its limit, so elegant have they become, en- 
abling one to furnish in almost any way desired ; while 
the borders, expressly drawn for the carpet, enhance its 
beauty. The English Brussels now arriving were selected 
by one of their firm, and excel any previous importa- 
tions ; while the prices are lower than last year. 

Messrs. Pray & Co. are the largest dealers in the very- 
best makes (Lowell and others), and are the chief cus- 
tomers of some manufacturers making other grades. 



14 A FEW FACTS ABOUT CARPETS. 



It is suggested to their many customers, that it is far 
more satisfactory in the end to buy the best. There are 
grades of Brussels advertised to sell at a very low price, 
which are made from poor wool (and of which there is 
very little), and, wear being the test, are not worth the 
price for which they sell. Such goods take the dye 
poorly. The customer is enabled to make comparisons, 
from a few sample pieces kept in stock. 

Tapestries. — The great improvement in the designs, 
clearness of line, and color, make these goods more desir- 
able than ever. They are made in a number of qualities, 
from the very cheap and almost worthless, through various 
grades, to those which can be fully commended. 

Among those which are acknowledged to command 
first place, is the Roxbury make, in which Messrs. Pray 
& Co. have the best patterns, private for the United 
States, with borders drawn to match. They are adapted 
for all reception-rooms, chambers, and halls. 

English Woodstock Carpets. — These goods, of 
which Messrs. Pray & Co. have full control, from the 



A FEW FACTS ABOUT CARPETS. 1 5 



original manufacturers, for the whole United States, are 
made both in three-ply and two-ply grade. For fine 
quality, for evenness of weave, variety and beauty of de- 
sign, they have no equal in Kidderminster goods. 

Other manufacturers and dealers, acknowledging their 
wonderful success, have attempted competition by copy- 
ing into American goods. The difference is apparent 
upon a most cursory examination. These goods are 
made in exclusive English designs, some with centres 
of solid colors, — blue, light tan, maroon, etc., — and all 
have handsome fringed borders. 

These carpets placed upon a room, with a surround of 
plain material, make a beautiful and inexpensive floor- 
covering, as they cost less than the English breadth 
goods made up with borders. 

Below, we give a full memorandum of sizes in yards. 





THREE-PLY. 




Yards. 


Yards. 


Yards. 


4X3 


3X4 


3i X 4i 


3*3 


3i x 4. 


4 X 4£ 


3X3? 


3 X 4i 


4X5 



i6 


A FEW 


FACTS ABOUT 


• — 1— 
CARPETS. 






TWO-PLY. 








Yards. 


Yards. 


Yards. 






4X 3 


3X4 


3.1 x 4i 






2 2 X 32 


3 x4 


4 X 4i 






3X3 


3j X 4 


4 X 5 






3 *3h 









No prices are given, as they are liable to change 
somewhat from season to season ; but they will be gladly 
furnished when applied for. 

Ingrains. — The terms " ingrains," "two-plies," and 
"Kidderminsters" are synonymous as regards the charac- 
ter of the goods ; but by no means denote the quality, 
which is very varied. Messrs. Pray & Co. can most posi- 
tively assert, that their line of ingrain carpets is not to be 
excelled in the United States ; and the reasons for its 
being so are easily discovered. 

Their wholesale department enables them to purchase 
a very large line, while their buyers' taste and judgment 
have never been doubted ; and having the first choice, 
from the best makers, enables them to have, as private, 
many designs never even seen by other dealers. Many 



A FEW FACTS ABOUT CARPETS. 25 



carpets from those who have a reputation, and an interest 



m maintaining it. 



In the matter of selection between the many different 
carpet-sweepers, the choice of the best is largely one of 
individual preference of the customer. 

Cleansing Carpets (Naphtha Process). — This 
is regarded as the surest and most satisfactory, where 
there is the slightest suspicion of moth eggs or worms. 
It is especially adapted to pile carpets. Caution should 
be exercised as to the purity and clearness of the naphtha 
used, and the thorough extraction of the grease, else the 
dirt adheres more easily than before. Where carpets are 
to remain on storage some time, the odor can be left in 
the carpet if desired. A more thorough cleansing can 
be assured by having the carpet beaten first. A surface 
application of naphtha will drive the impurities through 
the article, to be absorbed by that which is under it. 

Beating. — There was a time when all work of this 
kind, done by hand, was preferred ; but in the absence 
of men who do it thoroughly, and the lack of available 



26 A FEW FACTS ABOUT CARPETS. 



space for such operations, the improved carpet-beating 
machines are heartily recommended. They do their 
work thoroughly, evenly ; and in one place, at least, it 
can be said, that no danger exists from any thing getting 
into the carpet from previous cleanings, as all dirt is car- 
ried off immediately. Where work of this kind is done 
at home, care should be exercised that the article is 
beaten on its back, in order that the dirt may be forced 
from the place where it has settled. The best instrument 
in use is a rattan with a large loop. 

Washing. — The dye-houses have done some very 
satisfactory work on woollen carpets, but the process 
shrinks the carpet very much. 

Cleansing on Floor. — Where oil is required to be 
removed, without taking up the carpet, pipe-clay thorough- 
ly beaten into the carpet will absorb it within forty- eight 
hours, when it can be brushed off. This is just the oppo- 
site, in its action, from naphtha. Water spilt upon carpets 
should be sopped up, not rubbed. 



A FEW FACTS ABOUT CARPETS. 2J 

Cleansing Oil-cloths. — A solution (not too strong) 
of castile soap and water is all that is needed to cleanse 
them properly. Nothing should be used which will soften 
the varnish. 



Varnishing Oil-cloths. — In order to retain for a 
number of years the freshness of the original pattern, the 
oil-cloth should receive, at least once a year, an even coat 
of the best copal varnish, with but little turpentine added, 
unless time for drying is limited. An extra coat at time 
of purchase is worth many times the expense. It allows 
the paint to harden, while all the wear comes on the 
varnish. The cost, including labor, is 12J cents per 
square yard. Varnishing linoleums is not advised, al- 
though it has been done occasionally with satisfactory 
results. 



Storage of Carpets. — Where parties are to leave 
their house for some time, there seem to be but two 
alternatives for the sure protection of the carpets. If 
left in charge of any one, the seeming lack of necessity 



28 A FEW FACTS ABOUT CARPETS. 



often prevents their receiving the attention they need. 
When taken up and beaten, folded in some regular shape, 
large bags made from heavy wide unbleached cotton, with 
a drawing-string, make the best possible covering. After 
drawing the string, tie another just below, which effectually 
prevents entrance at the mouth of the bag. There is no 
necessity for the larger outlay for camphor, paper, and 
burlap, made by some each year. 

Making and Laying Department. — Messrs. Pray 
& Co. have recently re-organized this branch of their busi- 
ness, and feel better prepared than ever to do promptly, 
carefully, and in good taste, all work intrusted to them. 
They undertake to measure, wherever their customers 
desire, at no expense to them, where Messrs. Pray & Co. 
are to lay the goods, except the necessary travelling ex- 
penses of the upholsterer. 

Their charges for labor vary, of course, according to 
the kind of work ; but they will gladly furnish a schedule 
of prices, upon application. 

Where the measures permit of it, they cut their carpets 
to lie quite snug, as they wear much better. 



A FEW FACTS ABOUT CARPETS. 29 

Hints about Measuring. — Many customers have 
occasion to mail plans or dimensions of spaces they 
desire covered in their out-of-town residences. A line 

of suggestion to such may be of service : 

1st, In the diagram of the space, locate all the jogs, 
doors, and windows, giving the length and depth. 

2d, All measures should be taken in feet and inches, 
drawing the tape just taut. 

3d, Measures for bordered carpets should be taken 
as fine as the quarter-inch, giving the net measure with 
no allowance. 

4th, Any preferences as to the running of the breadths 
and the figure should be mentioned, and the front of the 
room indicated upon the plan. 

5th, The length of the stair-carpet should include half 
a yard extra to allow for the change. 

The following cut gives all the measurements required, 
even for a bordered carpet. 



A FEW FACTS ABOUT CARPETS. 3 1 

Hints upon Laying Carpets. — Spread the entire 
carpet on the floor. Turn back a portion to allow for the 
spreading of the lining over one-half the room, lapping 
the latter so as to retain the dirt upon the surface. Then 
open that portion of the carpet, after which spread the 
other half. Commence to lay the carpet on the straight 
side, fitting the window-recesses, jogs, and fireplace last. 
All plaits on stair-carpets should be made on the rise, 
and never on the tread. The upholsterer should be 
cautioned, if necessary, about using too large a tack. 
Customers should insist upon having their carpets laid 
smooth and tight, as they look better, and wear much 
longer. 



§JOR the assistance of those coming 
from other cities, the following is 
suggested as being the easiest means for 
reaching Messrs. Pray & Co.'s Carpet 
House : — 

From the Albany and Old Colony 
Depots, — any South Boston car. 

From the Providence Depot, — it is 
but a short distance through Boylston 
to Washington Street. 

From the New- York and New-Eng- 
land Depot, — through Summer and Bed- 
ford to Washington Street. 

From the Fitchburg, Maine, Lowell, 
and Eastern Depots, — any car for Sum- 
mer Street. 



32 



A FEW FACTS ABOUT CARPETS. \J 

of their nice ingrains, styled " Kensington," are copies 
from the English " Woodstock " whole carpets, enabling 
their customers to buy the English designs in American 
goods ; and, as will be seen elsewhere, as the Woodstocks 
are confined by their original makers to them alone, 
these patterns are their own exclusively. 



Sample Patterns. — For the convenience of a Targe 
and increasing New-England trade, Messrs. Pray & Co. 
make it an especial branch of their business, to select, 
according to their best judgment, such patterns as they 
think will please those who are not at liberty to make 
their selection at their store. They would suggest to 
such as send for samples, the advisability of stating their 
preferences for any particular color, or style of design, as 
well as the rooms for which they are intended. 

There need be no fear of any attempt on the part of a 
respectable dealer to send patterns of undesirable goods ; 
for, should the first selection not prove satisfactory, an- 
other can readily, and would be gladly, sent. Their line 
of samples at their Boston warehouse is especially large. 



1 8 A FEW FACTS ABOUT CARPETS. 



Straw Mattings. — Great improvements in the di- 
rection of the perfection of these goods have been made, 
especially during the past few years. Many of the old 
styles are still imported ; but there has, besides, come into 
the market a large variety of patterns and colorings, both 
in fancy and solid colors, among the latter of which there 
are red, old-gold, blue, green, etc. A change in the 
weave of the better qualities adds much to their value 
and beauty. They are now made without joins, render- 
ing them reversible, where necessary on account of any 
discoloration. 

The custom of allowing these goods to remain upon 
the floor the whole year, is growing in favor ; and where 
the prices are so very cheap as at present, it is a tempta- 
tion to furnish the house complete, as other carpets can 
be laid directly over them. 

A very novel effect is produced by using fancy or solid 
colors for a dado. A very cool summer furnishing is to 
use some one of the plain mattings as a surround for 
a central rug. A thin coat of white varnish applied to a 
straw matting will help to retain its fresh color, as it is 
the contact with air which causes it to become dry. 



A FEW FACTS ABOUT CARPETS. 19 

Oil-cloths. - Messrs. Pray & Co. carry an exceed- 
ingly large and varied stock of these goods, ranging from 
the very low-priced to the best in the market. In addi- 
tion to the American makes, they import from the best 
English manufacturers, as will be seen in the widths of 
goods given elsewhere. The cheaper goods can be fur- 
nished in 4-4, 5-4, 6-4, 8-4, and 10-4; while the better 
grades, being made 12, 15, 18, and 24 feet wide, enables 
one to cover almost any sized space, without a seam. 

For the preservation of these goods, reference is made 
to an article on " Varnishing Oil-cloths." 

Linoleums. — Great prominence has been given to 
these goods of late years. Their great durability, soft- 
ness to the tread, and the number of qualities in which 
they are made, together with the various uses to which 
they are adapted, have occasioned quite a marked de- 
mand. The figured goods can never, however, take the 
place of a finely finished sheet oil-cloth, as the pattern 
wears off more easily, and varnishing is not recommended 
by the manufacturers. These goods were formerly made 
but six feet wide, but can now be procured much wider. 



20 A FEW FACTS ABOUT CARPETS. 



The prices on these goods vary according to quality. 
For offices and public places, the plain is regarded as the 
best for hard wear. There is also manufactured a thin 
quality suitable for stair-carpet. The borders made for 
these goods are in various widths, and are drawn to 
match. 

Lignums. — Manufactured, as the name indicates, 
from wood-pulp and other substances, they combine 
many of the good features of the linoleum and the oil- 
cloth. The Italian tile-effects produced in these goods 
make them particularly attractive. 

Seams are avoided in these goods, as they are made 
as wide as twenty-four feet. 

Paper. — Except under straw mattings and oil-cloths, 
preventing the latter from sticking to the floor, its use is 
not recommended. 

Lining. — This is an article moths will not touch. It 
is made with an even layer of cotton between two papers 
which are stitched together, thereby saving it, and en- 



A FEW FACTS ABOUT CARPETS. 21 



abling one with care to use it several times. Its use is 
almost universal. It makes the carpet softer to the tread ; 
it saves it from the inequalities of the floor, and causes 
the carpet to wear longer and more evenly. It is one 
yard wide, and the price for the best is ten cents per yard. 

Coverings for the Stair-carpets. -These can be 
bad in the ordinary stair oil-cloth, in felting, or in a thin 
oil-cloth or linoleum. Should one desire a nicer article, 
the English felting, 48 inches wide, can be so cut in strips 
as to cause little if any waste, and yet be of sufficient 
width. 

Stair-rods. — Of these, Messrs. Pray & Co. have a 
large case of samples, very conveniently arranged for in- 
spection, with designs in brass, nickel, copper, and hand- 
some woods. They would be pleased to send samples, 
from which to select, when requested to do so. 



22 A FEW FACTS ABOUT CARPETS. 



WIDTHS OF CARPETS. 



AXMINSTERS, MOQUETTES, WILTONS, BRUSSELS, 
TAPESTRIES. 

In body goods, 27 inches. 

BORDERS FOR THE ABOVE. 

Mostly 22^ inches; some 18 and 27 inches, and still a 
few 9 and 13^ inches. 

STAIR-CARPETS FOR THE ABOVE. 

27, 31^, and 36 inches. 

ALL WOOLLENS. 

3 feet wide. 

WOOLLEN BORDERS. 

Mostly 18 inches. 

WOOLLEN STAIRS. 

18, 22^-, and 27 inches, and sometimes wider. 

STRAW MATTINGS. 

Almost invariably 3 feet. 

OIL-CLOTHS. 

From 3 feet wide in the cheaper qualities, to 18 and 24 
feet in the very best. 

LIGNUMS. 

12 and 18 feet. 

LINOLEUMS. 

6, 9, and 12 feet. 



A FEW FACTS ABOUT CARPETS. 23 



Moths. — Many are not aware that all the present 
damage is done when the millers commence to fly, as 
their very presence indicates the absence of the worm. 
It is to prevent the miller's incubating, that precautions 
should be taken. A larger proportion of the millers 
never hatch eggs, but die without causing any harm. 
The male miller, which does not fly, but runs very rapidly, 
is quite easily detected by his triangular-shaped figure ; 
but, keeping himself out of sight, he is not so easily 
found. His hiding explains the devious flights of the 
female in her search. The killing of one male is equal 
to the extinction of many ordinary millers. The male 
miller is commonly known by the name of "silver fish." 

Carpets are seldom troubled with moth- worms, except 
where hatched in a dark, unprotected space, and where 
it is moderately warm. It is for this reason, no doubt, 
that carpet-houses are seldom, if ever, troubled by them ; 
the stocks in the larger houses being disposed of between 
seasons. Where an establishment like that of Messrs. 
Pray & Co. has an outlet for the disposal of their goods, 
both at wholesale and retail, there is no opportunity; 



24 A FEW FACTS ABOUT CARPETS. 



while, in a smaller store, the goods move slowly, and re- 
main longer upon the shelf. 

Nearly all the trouble from moths emanates from the 
furniture ; the burlap inside the outer covering being their 
best field for work, where they can be free from annoy- 
ance, and find plenty to eat. Many of the furniture 
dealers of to-day realize their danger, and cleanse the 
burlap used with naphtha. It is when the worms are either 
tired of their food, or it lacks the nourishment that they 
desire, that they seek an outlet, and drop upon the car- 
pet. It is well to examine the furniture once a year at 
least, to prevent such happenings. 



Sweeping Carpets. — Oriental carpets should be 
swept with a broom of stiff fibre ; always, of course, in 
common with all pile carpets, in the direction of the pile. 
No alarm need be felt, however, if a little of the loose 
wool comes away with sweeping. Should it continue, 
prompt notice should be given, as a firm having regard 
for their business reputation would desire to set the mat- 
ter right; and herein lies the advantage in purchasing 



ESTABLISHED IN 181Z. 



John p. f ray, 8ons, § Co., 



Importers. Jobbers, Retailers, and Manufacturers' Agents. 



i 



558 and 560 Washington Street, 



BOSTON. 



NEW YORK OFFICE, 113 WORTH STREET. 



,„ LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 

018 446 775 6 ♦ 



